The Art of Clear Thinking
by Marji Keith
The Broaden and Build theory of positive psychology suggests that when we have an emotional pain, we are narrowed and therefore can’t think clearly about our choices and possibilities. And when we get through that pain, we begin to see possibilities in front of us, we become curious and open; we broaden and thus we can build.
This is fairly obvious with physical pain; if you break your toe, for example, it’s all you can think about. You can’t participate in an open, thoughtful or happy manner about any subject because your mind is only on your pain point. Yet when that pain subsides you are able to resume normal thought processes again. The same is true for emotional distress. When we are in the thick of it, we become narrowed to all possibility. We don’t see the big picture, we get stuck. We may even feel hopeless.
So what can we do? Simply understanding the broaden and build theory can help us adjust to difficult events and changes in our lives. Cultivating positive emotions is also key.
Wait for the storm to clear:
During a thunderstorm on a lake, the water does not clearly reflect the sky and scenery above. Reflections of trees, boats, clouds appear chopped up and unclear. Maybe there’s no reflection at all. Yet.
When you wait for the storm to clear, the water more accurately reflects the scene that is mirrored in it.
Our brains are conditioned to do this. It’s the flight or fright response. We see narrowly when in danger and have a much, much broader viewpoint when we are no longer in danger. We can see our options. One good thing begins to lead to another and yet another.ery, the imagery. We become curious, open and creative.
Actually, our brains are conditioned to do this. It’s the flight or fright response. We see narrowly when in danger and have a much, much broader once the danger has passed. We can see our options. One good thing begins to lead to another and yet another.
Wait for the storm to clear. Understand that you are currently seeing narrowly and know that possibility will open up to you when the water is clear again.
Begin to build positive emotions, even if slowly, because they build on one another and replace unhealthy thoughts with healthy ones. Begin by noticing and savoring any small moments that come into your awareness. Notice ruminating thoughts and replace them with gratitude. < Here are more tips on increasing positive emotions. >
You will begin to see opportunities all around you, and you will create solutions while progressing toward your dreams.
The storm does not last forever. Storms come and go and there is so much beauty, so much clarity, so much room for reflection and growth, after the storm passes.
I'd love to hear your ideas on broaden and build. What has worked for you to help the storm pass?